Azubi
Guest
I find this too - the first stop point is way too far. I always end up holding the door to climb out, and multistories are a nightmare.
I nearly looked for a 5 door for this very reason, but then got my sense back.
My techniques for avoiding battered panels are:
- If a car park is quiet, park across 2 bays
- Park a distance away, as people always want to get as close as possible and will not park near your car
- Park next to two new/expensive cars
In multi stories, park next to a pillar/end wall/ramp and get as close to it as poss. folding in mirror if possible. This gives the car next to you a bit more room.

I thought this was just me. I don't mind the extra 30 seconds of walking, just as long as my car is safe from ignorant
I have noticed the problem of only too stops though. I am currently using a Pug 207 courtesy car and the doors are much easier as it has quite a few stopping points. Lighter doors too.